Kirkcudbright pupils Mongolia-bound

NEXT October, 36 students from Kirkcudbright Academy plan to go on an exciting expedition to Mongolia and are seeking funding from local organisations to help them on their way.

The pupils, all aged between 15 and 17, will spend 18 days in Mongolia with two main objectives - firstly, living in a physically challenging environment and testing limits by tackling both a horse riding and walking trek. Secondly, by undertaking a five-day community development project in a local community, building a day care centre as well as teaching and playing with the local children. The trip is not a holiday but an expedition with challenge, adventure and a chance to give something back to the local community that will be playing hosts to the pupils. The challenge starts long before the actual trip in raising the funds needed to get them there. They have all been individually active in finding part time work and have been selling their services as baby sitters, waiters, gardeners, car washers and dog walkers.

They are actively seeking funding from local and national sponsors, businesses and trust funds. The pupils say they know that the bad economic conditions mean everyone is careful about spending, wants value for money and favour charities where money raised is spent on charities close to home. They realise, however, that they are lucky enough to live in an area with a large number of visitors and will be organising events targeting the visitors to the region. To be able to achieve their goal they will need to demonstrate their personal commitment through hard graft and team work. Any support you can give them to help them on their way for this life changing experience would be very gratefully received. Each pupil needs at least £2450.

Contact The Galloway Gazette for details of how to contribute on 01671 404766 or email editorial@gallowaygazette.com